Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, Olapeju Ibekwe, has been appointed to the Board of the United Nations Global Compact Network Nigeria, UNGCNN, in recognition of her leadership in advancing sustainable development across Africa.
The appointment, announced through the UNGCNN’s official channels, comes ahead of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where Ibekwe is expected to join global leaders in exploring new strategies for accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Under her leadership, Sterling One Foundation has expanded its influence across Africa, forging global partnerships and implementing programs in education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and youth development. Thousands of beneficiaries have been reached, while policy and private-sector collaborations driven by the foundation continue to strengthen sustainable solutions on the continent.
Experts highlight the timing of her appointment as critical. With just 15% of the SDGs on track globally and Africa facing an estimated $200 billion annual financing gap, Ibekwe’s role is expected to reinforce the need for political will, effective cross-sector collaboration, and bold private-sector participation.
Reacting to the announcement, Ibekwe described the opportunity as “a platform to strengthen the localisation of the SDGs,” a mission she has consistently pursued through Sterling One Foundation’s initiatives and advocacy.
Her appointment also deepens alignment with the UN Global Compact’s principles and the African Union’s Women and Youth Financial and Economic Inclusion (WYFEI) 2030 initiative, both of which prioritize inclusive growth and responsible private-sector engagement.
Observers note that the development further validates the role of high-level convenings like the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS), which Ibekwe has championed as a platform to unite governments, businesses, and civil society in accelerating Africa’s progress.
With her grassroots experience and continental outlook, Ibekwe’s presence on the UNGCNN Board is expected to bring an African perspective to global conversations, reinforcing the narrative that the continent is not merely a recipient of aid but a driver of innovative solutions for sustainable development.
The UN Global Compact Network Nigeria is the local chapter of the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, mobilizing businesses and organizations to adopt responsible practices and actively contribute to achieving the SDGs.
